Meet a Member

Kyle Binaxas

VLA Treasurer

What is your current position? Technology and Content Strategy Manager

Where do you work? Suffolk Public Library

When did you first know that you wanted to work in the library field? I can't say that I ever "knew" or will ever "know" that being a librarian is the career made for me. It's a career that I enjoy and I love helping others and providing research and reference support while also serving underserved populations. I was greatly inspired by one of the professors at East Carolina University to think about library school and his kindness and overall great attitude made me realize that he was the kind of person I wanted to be as a career person. Librarianship was a natural fit, I think, but I am always looking for anything that challenges and excites me. 

What is your favorite part of librarianship? My favorite part of librarianship--outside of snatching the new books when they first get taken out of the boxes from the delivery truck--is working with the public especially when it comes to things like career support or school support. I love being that person working alongside them as they work on their resume or apply for that job or trying to turn in their homework. I love the experience of hearing what a person is looking for in a book and moving through the shelves with them to pick out that new and "perfect" book for them. Seeing people who are interested in self-improvement, broadening their reading tastes, or getting into books for for the first time and developing new skills to better their lives is what pushes me to keep doing what I enjoy doing.

What was your first library or library related job? I was a Cataloging Associate at East Carolina University but my first "grown up" job once I received my MLS was being a Librarian at a Correctional facility.

What projects or programs are you currently working on at your library? We are currently working on expanding Internet across Suffolk Virginia, while also making sure we are supporting the library users who come into the library. We circulate MiFi devices for check out while also providing WiFi in two local public parks. We hope to expand this project to a more permanent solution to provide free wifi to the residents of Suffolk!

What issue or topic in librarianship are you most interested in? I am interested in Intellectual Freedom, Privacy and Privacy concerns in library, and re-imagining the library world to highlight the diversity of librarians and library staff.  

Why are you a member of VLA and what is the most important reason to you for being a member of VLA? I joined VLA because I want to make a difference in providing support to other libraries and librarians in any way that is possible. VLA has done so much for my professional development and I've met a lot of great people at all of the events. The least I can do is get involved and be here in the association with my fellow library workers! 

Contact Kyle Binaxas at [email protected]